Scots running out of time to buy their Secret Santa presents have been urged to embrace “sustainable gifting” with top tips from Scotland’s anti-waste agency. Zero Waste Scotland said Secret Santa gifts are notorious for leading to throwaway items and unnecessary waste, damaging the environment.
But they stressed it’s easy for Scots this year to make a change, with a series of “thoughtful” gift ideas that also help the planet, from vintage books to concert tickets. A large chunk of Scotland’s carbon footprint comes from “over-consumption” – endlessly buying brand new products off the shelves, a habit exacerbated during the festive giving season.
Ian Gulland, Chief Executive of Zero Waste Scotland, said: “This Christmas, we have a chance to rethink how we give gifts and embrace a more sustainable way of celebrating. Secret Santa doesn’t have to mean wasteful or meaningless presents.
“Thoughtful choices – like pre-loved treasures, reusable items, or experiences such as concert tickets – not only show care for the recipient, but also for the planet.” Zero Waste Scotland’s four top tips to be a Secret Santa hero this Christmas, with sustainable gifts to save the day, are:
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Choose second-hand or “pre-loved” presents: Scots can find unique treasures in second-hand shops or online auction sites, from vintage books to quirky accessories. A poll for Oxfam last year found a third of Scots were planning to buy pre-loved Christmas presents for their loved ones, marking a change in attitudes – with books, toys and jewellery among popular options.
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Gift experiences, not things: Many are now turning to giving their loved ones the gift of memories by buying them concert or theatre tickets, classes or vouchers for local attractions instead of physical products. Post-pandemic consumer research has found 66 per cent of people aged 25-34 would now prefer to get an experience as a gift rather than a thing.
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Opt for practical gifts: Practical, reusable items are always thoughtful and friendly to the environment. Reusable coffee cups and water flasks, eco-friendly bags and even sustainable phone cases are some of the items on the market that might fit the bill.
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Wrap responsibly: Scots are advised to swap glittery wrapping paper for reusable or recyclable options. These can include fabric gift wrap, reusable gift bags, plastic-free paper and tape and pages from old newspapers or magazines.
With these tips and more, Zero Waste Scotland say it’s easy to spread holiday cheer without waste. Gulland added: “Our traditional ‘take, make, waste’ economy is unsustainable.
“By choosing circular options that keep products and materials in use for longer, we can make a real difference. Through small changes, like mindful gifting, we can share in the joy of the season without compromising the planet.”
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